Support to SMEs and entrepreneurs

To provide support and information to small and medium-sized businesses (SMES) seeking to boost their business, the Commission sponsors several support networks.

The Enterprise Europe Network

The Enterprise Europe Network helps small companies make the most out of business opportunities in the EU. It is a one-stop-shop for all business needs. It provides support on access to market information, overcoming legal obstacles, and identifying potential business partners across Europe.

ensure visibility, recognition, and local awareness about the network.

The Enterprise Europe Network comprises about 600 partner organisations in more than 50 countries. It consists of around 3000 staff with expertise in business and innovation services for SMEs. The network is a two-way communication channel between the Commission and the SME community. It obtains opinions from SMEs about developing new legislation, taking into account initiatives set out in the Small Business Act and the Think Small First Principle.

Your Europe Business

Only 25% of European SMEs export to another country. This means that many SMEs are missing out on opportunities offered by the Single Market. Your Europe Business is a portal offering help to businesses and entrepreneurs who want to expand their activities to other EU or EEA countries. It provides practical information on EU rules and links them to national rules, authorities, helpdesks, and support services.

Intellectual property rights helpdesks

Intellectual property (IP) can improve the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). However, SMEs often lack the time, resources, or knowledge to address intellectual property rights (IPR) issues. The EU funds five IPR helpdesks staffed by experts who can provide free advice and training sessions on IP issues: